Thursday, February 23, 2012

Joe Taylor Serial Entreprenuer!

Joe Taylor is the founder and President of Sleepy Creek Vineyards near Oakwood, IL.

After a receiving degree in Graphic Design from Southern Illinois University in 1990, He co-founded Taylor Studios Inc, with Betty Brennan. Taylor Studios, located in Rantoul, IL, is a business that designs and builds museum exhibits. In 1998 Taylor Studios was named to Inc. Magazines “Inc. 500” list as one of the fastest growing private companies. Today, they are one of the top exhibit design and fabrications firms in the country, employing over 30 people.

In 2002, He was bit by the entrepreneurial bug again and started Sleepy Creek Vineyards. He, and his wife Dawn, planted their 10 acre vineyard in with plans to open a winery. After establishing the vineyard, they opened their winery to the public in 2007. Sleepy Creek Vineyards currently makes over 10 different hand crafted wines. All made on site with locally grown grapes.

In addition to growing grapes and making wine, the winery host several festivals, art shows, concerts and private events. There is also a two bedroom vacation rental above the winery for visitors to rent for a relaxing getaway. To watch the entire TV interview with Joe Taylor CLICK HERE